Families Gather for Ye Olde Renaissance Faire

Despite a few days of school left, summer vacation felt like it was in full swing Sunday afternoon as children gathered in the warm sun outside Highland Park Public Library for some medieval-themed festivities. 

The library kicked off its summer reading program, titled "A Midsummer Knight’s Read," with the Renaissance Faire. The afternoon event featured various activities put on by actors from Medieval Times.

Young children sat and watched as the actors in appropriate period attire did various routines that also provided information about aspects of life during the Middle Ages.   

One event had the knights call some of the children up to show them the different weapons from the Middle Ages. Other events included a jester show and a sword fight. 

A falconer show featured an actor as he displayed different types of birds. One particular bird, a 27-year-old red-tailed hawk named Jack, performed various tricks.  

Reading programs for children from preschool through ninth grade will occur throughout the summer. Registration runs through July 30 and can be done by clicking here.

For more information about other summer reading events at the library, check out library website.

Check out the photo gallery from Sunday's event by clicking the photo above.